Devlin wasn’t selected for the Olympic qualifying and that hurt the defensive midfielder - who is eager to make up for lost time.
“I would have absolutely loved to be there,” admitted the former Sydney FC youngster.
Too Late
The truth is that the 21-year-old wasn’t playing regularly enough to be considered for national service - but things have since changed and Ufuk Talay considers the defensive midfielder a mainstay in the side.
Reno Piscopo is one Phoenix star who played for the Olyroos as they achieved their goals, but it meant he missed out on a handful of A-League games. For Devlin, that would have meant giving up his place in the side.
And that, for Devlin, wouldn’t have been ideal: “To miss out on the qualifiers was maybe a blessing that I missed out because the boys qualified, which is unbelieveable, and I got to play regular first team football.”
Competitions for places is tough, as it should be at international level, but the midfielder is doing everything he can to be considered for the next squad. Devlin is one of the most consistent performers in the A-League and has attracted praise for the level he’s reached.
Competition
“It’ll be so tough, so tough, and theres’ so many good young Australians going for that,” Devlin added.
His run of games might come to an end if he picks up a fifth yellow card and earns himself a suspension. Devlin is currently juggling his desire to play strong football and avoid going into the referees book.
Its a line he’ll continue to tread lightly.
“I’m going to do anything in my power not to get another yellow card, I really don’t want one, I don’t want to stop playing, I’m loving playing every week. It’s something I am aware of.”